Bronson, a 10-month-old mongrel, has a sensitive personality at odds with his tough name.

Dogs are "misrepresented" by "tough" names like Tyson, Bronson and Bruiser

"Tough bully" names are making it harder to rehome certain breeds of dogs, Battersea has warned.

The leading dog's home said owners often choose to give their dogs "tough" names.

Since January last year, it has taken in 22 Tysons, seven Butches, six Bullies, two Bruisers and two Bruzas.

A Battersea spokesman said "So many of the dogs Battersea cares for have the odds stacked against them before they come through its gates, it seems unfair that their name, of all things, should be yet another obstacle in their way."

One such dog is Bronson, a 10-month-old mongrel, whose tough name is at odds with his sensitive personality.

Six weeks ago Bronson's owner decided he was unable to loo after him anymore.

A nervous Bronson came to Battersea. But since then, he has proved himself an excitable pup who just wants a cuddle, and is delighting the staff at the Brands Hatch branch of the home.

Similarly, Battersea's experts felt that Staffordshire bull terrier, Bruiser, was so misrepresented by his name that they changed it to Bruce.

Rob Young, head of rehoming at Battersea, said: “Bruce is an energetic and excitable dog but he is a friendly and happy boy – definitely not a bruiser. Once we changed his name he came into his own, and found a lovely home with a man in Basingstoke.”

Some of the dogs come to Battersea as strays and are named by the local authorities that found them while many where handed in by their owners, unable to look after them anymore.

“These bully names show that some people choose a dog hoping it’s going to be tough. If their dog turns out to be a massive softie, they’re then disappointed and get rid of them.

"This may be one reason why we are seeing so many dogs like Staffies, which, rather than being the bullies they are portrayed as, can be loyal, loving family pets to the right owner,” said Mr Young.

Battersea launched its Staffies. They’re softer than you think campaign in 2011 to highlight the gentle side of the breed.

For information on rehoming any of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home’s residents, you can call 0843 509 4444 or visit www.battersea.org.uk.